Historic England - Harry Bearley

Born in Sheffield, Brearley invented stainless steel after becoming an expert in the analysis of steel production. In 1912, while working with a small arms manufacturer, he developed a steel which strongly resisted chemical attack and after experimenting with vinegar, Brearley immediately saw how this new steel could revolutionise the cutlery industry.

Places to visit

Sheffield Industrial Museums, Sheffield
Discover the history of this great industrial city by exploring Sheffield’s Industrial Museums at Kelham Island Museum, Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet and Shepherd Wheel, which are home to Brearley’s collections.  In ‘Steel City’ as Sheffield is often known, see everything from early water-powered grinding wheels to the giant steelworks of Sheffield’s East End; find out about the workers, the inventions, the wealth and the poverty.